Cannabis As A Treatment For Migraines

Anyone who has suffered from migraines can tell you that the debilitating pain can put a complete halt on your life and ability to complete simple daily tasks. Nearly 5 million Americans will experience at least one migraine attack a month, and 11 million people will claim that frequent migraine attacks cause moderate to severe disability. With so many suffering from such a condition, numerous clinical trials are being held to learn more about migraines, where they originate, and how they can be treated. While there are numerous over-the-counter medications for migraines, many have been deemed ineffective or come with their own list of harsh side effects. Fortunately, evidence is being found that cannabis can be used as a safe treatment option for those suffering from migraines.

First, it’s important to know what migraines are. More than just a severe headache, migraines are a collection of intense neurological symptoms that cause a recurring, throbbing pain in the head. In addition to an inescapable pain, those suffering from migraines may also experience an intense sensitivity to light or sound, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and a numb sensation within the face.

Recent studies took a closer look at the effects of cannabis on migraines and found promising results. Among the adult participants the substance was tested on, the average number of headaches decreased from 10.4 per month to 4.6. 40% of the subjects reported positive effects while 19.8% of the subjects claimed the cannabis helped prevent the migraines from occurring. Only 12% saw no change, and just 2% experienced an increase in migraines.

While the study may display some positive results, there’s still much more research that needs to be conducted before cannabis can be considered a recommended treatment option for the condition. Until then, those seeking cannabis as an option to treat migraines can speak to their physician to see if they are eligible for cannabis as a form of symptom management.